I’m going to go out on a limb and say that most parents know who Dr. Sears is; the trusted resource for parents. And best known as “America’s Pediatrician.” So when I found out that he not only recommends babywearing, but designed an adjustable sling, I had to give it a whirl. Balboa Baby creates fashionable and functional products to make life simpler for parents and better for babies. From car seat covers to nursing covers and baby carrying slings.
What is an Adjustable Sling?
I tried looking for the definition of an adjustable sling, but couldn’t find one, not even on Balboa Baby’s website. So, I’m going to try to explain what the Balboa Baby Adjustable Sling is: It’s like the pouch sling and ring sling hybrid. It has the pocket (or bucket) of the pouch sling, and the adjustable tail and rings from a ring sling. The tail on the Balboa Baby is not nearly as long as on most ring slings, and it also has a stopper at the end of the it.
Balboa Baby Adjustable Sling
Baby can be worn in four different positions in the Balboa Baby adjustable sling; front, cuddle, cradle and hip. I didn’t use the Balboa Baby Adjustable Sling much when Lucas was a newborn, as I felt like he sunk right into the deep pocket. I felt more comfortable wearing him in my Stretchy Wrap and ring sling during those first 6-7 months. Once he was a little sturdier and could hold up his own head, I felt better about wearing him in the Balboa.
I primarily use the Balboa Baby when I’m at home for quick cuddles and nursing while I try to catch a little reading break. The freedom of being hands free, book in one hand and the other to caress mi chiquitin. I also wear Luna on my hip too when she wants some quick cuddles.
I don’t use this baby carrier for more than 15 minutes, as my kids are around 20 and 35 pounds each. Although the shoulder strap does have a little cushion/padding, it doesn’t expand over the shoulder which can be a little strainful on the neck and shoulder. So weight isn’t really distributed fairly, as I find if the shoulder strap expands and goes over the shoulder, there is more support.
Easy to Use
One of the perks about the adjustable sling is that it’s super easy to use. Their isn’t much adjusting to it, once it’s been threaded in four easy steps. And, there is nothing to tie, or snap; making it perfect for little ones who are eager to be up and down a lot. This is actually why I use it so much at home lately. Because it seems like every time I try to wash dishes, or set the table, my little Sun wants to be up and then sees Luna and wants down. Haha
Fabric
100% cotton. Light weight. Folds up compactly, doesn’t take up much space in diaper bag and even fits in my purse. Shoulder strap is padded and comfy. The inner and outer (or top and bottom) have a padded elastic trim which ensures baby is positioned close to you. I imagine this padded elastic trim is comfy for baby (by neck/head and behind knees.
One Size
It’s one size in that it is designed to grow with your baby. From 8 to 35 pounds.
Body Type Friendly:
I’m not too sure. Although it has adjustable rings, the tail isn’t very long at all, just under 8 inches before the safety stopper.
Storage:
Yes, one little pouch (5×6 inches) on the front. It doesn’t close, so I wouldn’t put anything that may risk being lost,broken or more importantly, hurting the kids being worn since fabric is thin. Safe for pacifiers, or anything small and soft.
Care
Machine washable, with like colours.
Babywearing is easy, fun and convenient. It increases the bonding experience beyween baby and wearer. And allows you to be hands free too. If you’re interested in babywearing, make sure to check out the different kinds of baby carriers previously reviewed in this series below:
Stretchy Wrap feat. Happy Baby Wrap
MehDai feat. Didymos (DidyTai)
Woven Wrap feat. MamanKangourou
